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Manual VAT Entry

Enter individual transactions directly when you don't have a CSV file or need to record one-off transactions.

When to Use Manual Entry​

  • Recording cash transactions
  • Adding missing transactions
  • Correcting data not in your import file
  • Quick one-off entries
  • Mixed VAT category transactions (multi-line mode)

Accessing Manual Entry​

Navigate to VAT Entry from the main navigation, or use the quick action from the dashboard.

Entry Modes​

Quick Entry​

Simple single-line transaction entry for straightforward transactions in a single VAT category.

Advanced Mode​

Toggle to advanced mode for additional fields including export documentation, detailed descriptions, and reference numbers.

Multi-Line Mode​

For transactions that span multiple VAT categories (e.g., a sale containing both standard and reduced-category items):

  1. Enable multi-line mode
  2. Add line items with individual VAT classifications
  3. Each line can have its own VAT category (Standard 10%, Reduced 5%, Zero-Rated 0%, Exempt)

Entering a Transaction​

Step 1: Select Transaction Type​

Choose from Sale, Purchase, Import, Export, Credit Note, or Debit Note.

Step 2: Enter Details​

  • Business/Customer Name — Start typing for autocomplete suggestions
  • Transaction Date — Defaults to today (future dates allowed)
  • Description — Add transaction details

Step 3: Enter Amount​

  • Net or Gross toggle — Switch between entering the amount before or after VAT
  • Amount — The transaction value
  • VAT Category — Select Standard, Reduced, Zero-Rated, or Exempt
  • The system calculates the VAT amount and total from the values you enter

Step 4: Additional Fields (Advanced Mode)​

For zero-rated exports:

  • Reference Number — Invoice or customs reference
  • Customer Country Code — Destination country
  • Shipping Tracking — Tracking number for export documentation

Step 5: Review and Save​

  • Verify the VAT breakdown (subtotal, VAT, total)
  • Click Save Transaction
VAT Rate Transitions

When VAT rates change, the system displays rate transition guidance for transactions near the effective date to help you apply the correct category.

Step 6: Section 32 Supply Type (Optional)​

For most transactions you can leave this collapsed — the default Simple Supply covers normal sale and purchase timing. Expand the §32 Section Supply Type panel only when the tax-point timing differs from the invoice/delivery date, for example:

  • Advance payments and deposits taken before delivery (s. 32(11))
  • Continuous supplies billed at the end of each billing period (s. 32(8))
  • Construction-style retention payments released later (s. 32(17))
  • Goods supplied on approval (s. 32(15))

The selected supply type is persisted on the transaction and forms part of the VATCalculationProof audit record. See Section 32 Tax-Point Scenarios for a full guide.

Fraud Detection​

The system monitors entries and may flag:

  • Unusually large amounts
  • Patterns inconsistent with historical data
  • Rapid repeated entries

Flagged transactions are still saved but generate alerts for review.

Tips for Accurate Entry​

  1. Use consistent vendor names — Helps with reporting and auto-suggestions
  2. Include invoice references — Supports audit trail requirements
  3. Verify VAT categories — Especially for reduced-rate items requiring a food store license
  4. Enter promptly — Don't let transactions accumulate near filing deadlines

Practitioner Revocation Gate​

If your attestation is revoked or your client assignment ends, Comply will display a "blocked poster" alert and prevent further transaction entry on the affected client until the successor practitioner completes their own attestation. See Practitioner Revocation Gate for details.

By Statute References​

Next Steps​